WINNIPEG – June 17, 2008 – The Assiniboine River Walk has been temporarily closed to pedestrian traffic due to river levels.

Currently, the level of the Red River is 8.6 feet James Avenue datum. The Red River is expected to crest at between 9 and 10 feet James Avenue by June 25, 2008. 

It is anticipated the river level will then recede to below 8.5 feet by June 28, 2008, at which point the river walk will be re-opened.

River levels are dependent upon weather and levels can increase with significant rainfall. 

WINNIPEG – June 17, 2008 – This spring the Zoo has seen a record number of 16 births of Afghanistan Markhor -- the largest member of the goat subfamily. The male weighs up to 105 kg, and sports a set of spectacular spiral horns up to 1.5-metre in length, a long mane, pantaloons, and a bold colour pattern.

Dry weather conditions during the birthing season have helped with survival of the kids (usually twins) during their critical first few days of life. Within 24 hours, the kids are able to dash at high speed around the enclosure and jump around the rock pile. When rock-hopping loses its appeal, they are sometimes seen perched on top of their resting parents. Zoo visitors have been enthralled to watch their antics and frequently remark on their agility and cuteness.

This is a highly endangered species native to mountainous regions of Afghanistan, Pakistan, India and Uzbekistan. Centuries of over-hunting for meat, hides and trophies have left precariously low numbers, and the survivors have retreated to the most-inaccessible and precipitous slopes. The Zoo participates in the Markhor Species Survival Plan, which ensures a healthy captive population. Over 135 surviving young have been produced at the Assiniboine Park Zoo since 1976.